Balancing a career and raising kids has become the norm for mums across England — but the support they get still depends heavily on where they live. So, which places are doing the most to support modern motherhood in 2025?
To find out, CoworkingCafe analysed 80+ English cities and towns across four pillars — Work, Education, Health & Environment, and Affordability — using 15 key metrics including women’s employment, income, childcare availability and hourly fees, school access and performance, healthcare, air quality, green space, housing affordability and more. We also added two spotlights: Best Access & Support Strongholds (for career-focused mums) and Best Cost-Comfort Hotspots (for budget-conscious families).
According to our study, Brighton & Hove ranks #7 Best Support Stronghold in England, thanks to its blend of accessible primary care, strong childcare availability, and a lifestyle that supports everyday family wellbeing.
Brighton & Hove — Key Takeaways:
• Best childcare availability in England: With just 1.5 children per place, Brighton & Hove offers the easiest access to early-years spots in England (#1 nationally), although the hourly cost of £6.40 is higher compared to other peer cities
• Primary care within reach: 86.6 GPs per 100k residents provide broad access to healthcare (#3 highest in England)
• Entrepreneurial environment: 16.4% of working-age residents in the area are self-employed, the 6th highest percentage nationwide
• A week that works: Women in Brighton & Hove work on average 29 hours/week, supporting work–life balance (#10 shortest)
• Green space: Families enjoy 5 public green spaces within 1 km (#18), making outdoor time easy
• Steady jobs: 0.88 jobs per resident indicate good local opportunities (#22)
• Earnings that hold up: Women’s median income is £33,887/year (#26)
• Schools & learning: There are 25.7 schools per 10k children (#31), keeping options within reach for families
• Workforce momentum for women: 71.8% of women are employed, close to the England average—signalling a labour market that supports mothers’ careers (#33)
Nationally, Lancaster, Cheltenham, and Newcastle-under-Lyme top England’s list of the overall best cities for working mums, thanks to their mix of affordable childcare, strong employment and good services. Regionally, the North West dominates with five entrants in the top 10.
Full study and methodology here: https://www.coworkingcafe.com/blog/working-moms-uk/